Syrian Rebels Advance Towards Damascus; Assad’s Cabinet Takes Refuge at Military Airbase

Syrian rebels have intensified their offensive, moving closer to the capital, Damascus. Reports suggest President Bashar al-Assad’s cabinet and top military officials have sought refuge at a fortified military airbase.

Arab media indicate that regional stakeholders have drafted a transitional framework in anticipation of Assad’s possible departure. The plan envisions a nine-month interim government to oversee presidential and parliamentary elections.

In a televised address, Syrian Army Chief Gen. Abdul Karim Mahmoud Ibrahim urged citizens to dismiss rebel “misinformation” and expressed confidence in the military’s efforts to regain control.

The unfolding crisis in Syria has drawn global attention, with international actors bracing for further developments in the volatile region.

Syrian Interior Minister Lt. Gen. Mohammad Khaled al-Rahmoun downplayed the rebels’ advance, asserting, “The security of Damascus is impenetrable. No militia can breach our defenses.” However, reports from Iraqi sources confirm that nearly 2,000 Syrian soldiers have crossed into Iraq seeking sanctuary.

Jordan and Egypt have allegedly urged Assad to step down, but the Syrian leader remains defiant. Meanwhile, in Doha, foreign ministers from Turkey, Iran, and Russia have called for immediate talks to resolve the escalating conflict.

Newly inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated a non-interventionist stance, tweeting, “Syria’s conflict is not our concern. America must stay out of it.”

UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen underscored the urgency of a political resolution, stating, “A peaceful transition of power is essential for Syria’s future.”

Rebels recently secured Hama, where they staged a public parade, signaling their growing strength.